With another heatwave sending temperatures soaring across the UK, it’s little wonder bottles of the best rosé are disappearing from fridges almost as quickly as they’re being opened. Once dismissed as overly sweet and lacking character, today’s rosé is a world away from the syrupy styles that used to dominate the shelves. Inspired by the pale, crisp bottles poured across the south of France and beyond, modern rosé has become drier, fresher and far more sophisticated, making it just as suited to an alfresco lunch as an evening barbecue.
Its popularity shows no sign of slowing, either. Rosé now accounts for around 11 per cent of the UK wine market and, increasingly, it’s been embraced well beyond the summer months. Last year, for instance, one supermarket chain saw December outperform July for rosé sales, though with another heatwave in full swing, I’d happily pour a glass right about now.
Steve Garwood, buying manager for Tesco, believes social media has helped fuel the trend. “We’re seeing a huge rise in demand for rosé, driven in large part by TikTok and social media trends,” he said. “Rosé has become a symbol of relaxed, aspirational luxury and our customers want a piece of that lifestyle.”
Whether you’re looking for a standout bottle from an independent winery or an affordable supermarket rosé to enjoy this summer, these are the best rosés I’d recommend.
Read more: 9 best supermarket wines right now, according to sommeliers and experts
The best rosé wines for 2026 are:
- Best overall – G de Galoupet Côtes de Provence rosé 2025: £23, Laithwaites.co.uk
- Best young rosé – Musar Jeune rosé: £18.95, Fortnumandmason.com
- Best celebrity rosé – Roseblood d’Estoublon Coteaux Varois en Provence rosé : £20, Majestic.co.uk
- Best Italian rosé – Pasqua Y by 11 Minutes organic rosé: £23, Majestic.co.uk
- Best South African rosé – Journey’s End Wild Child rosé: £12.25, Ocado.com
Read more: Experts share top champagnes and sparkling wines to buy in the supermarket
